Visiting the dentist isn't everyone's favorite activity, especially if you haven't been keeping up with your brushing and flossing. Some people even feel nervous or scared about dental visits, while others really want to go but find it tough to afford. Did you know that 36 percent of adults in the US haven't seen a dentist in over a year? But here's the thing: those regular dental check-ups are totally worth it because it's much cheaper to prevent dental issues than to treat them.
And it's not just your habits that affect your dental health—where you live matters too! Some places in the U.S. have lots of dental professionals, making it easier to get the care you need. Plus, having fluoridated water can really help prevent tooth decay. While some states are great at providing fluoridated water to most people, others are still catching up.
To determine where people have the healthiest teeth and gums in the U.S., WalletHub compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia across 25 key indicators of dental wellness including adolescents who visited a dentist in the past year, dental treatment costs and dentists per capita.
Cassandra Happe, a WalletHub analyst, explains, “Being in a state that cares about dental health can make a world of difference for your mouth and teeth. While there are plenty of things you can do to help yourself like brushing and flossing regularly, states do a lot of legwork with things like access to fluoridated water, dental health programs in schools, and robust benefits through Medicaid. States that have a lot of dental health professionals and have low average costs for care are ideal to live in, as well.”
Without further ado, here are the states with the best dental health:
10. Ohio
Ohio ranks highly in dental health due to its high percentage of adults who have visited a dentist in the past year, ensuring regular dental check-ups for its residents. The state also uses the AAPD recommended Dental Periodicity Schedule, ensuring that Medicaid dental benefits are provided at the intervals recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
9. Massachusetts
Massachusetts is recognized for its high percentage of adults who have visited a dentist in the past year, indicating good access to dental care. The state also offers extensive dental benefits for nonelderly adults through Medicaid, ensuring broader access to affordable dental care.
8. North Dakota
North Dakota stands out for its relatively low cost of dental treatment, making dental care more affordable for its residents. The state also boasts a high number of dentists per capita, ensuring good access to dental professionals.
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7. District of Columbia
The District of Columbia offers a relatively low cost of dental treatment compared to other areas, making dental care more accessible.
6. Connecticut
Connecticut ranks well due to its low percentage of people who have reduced their social life due to the condition of their mouth and teeth, suggesting good overall oral health among its residents.
5. Michigan
Michigan is recognized for its low percentage of people who have frequently experienced pain or problems sleeping due to the condition of their mouth and teeth. The state also has a relatively low cost of dental treatment, making dental care more affordable for its residents.
4. Minnesota
Minnesota is known for its high number of dentists per capita, ensuring good access to dental professionals for its residents. The state also boasts a relatively low cost of dental treatment.
3. Idaho
Idaho ranks third in dental health, partly due to having the second-highest percentage of adolescents who visited a dentist in the past year. Additionally, the state boasts one of the lowest average costs for tooth extractions. Idaho offers a wide range of options for dental professionals, with one of the highest numbers of dental hygienists and dental assistants per capita in the U.S. In terms of dental habits, young people in Idaho exhibit responsible behavior. For instance, only about 10 percent of students in grades 9-12 consume soda at least once per day, which is the fourth-lowest rate in the country.
2. Wisconsin
Wisconsin is the second-best state for dental health, with the lowest percentage of people who have taken days off in the past year due to the condition of their mouth and teeth. Additionally, it has the lowest share of people who have reduced their social life due to their oral health. The state also boasts a high percentage of adults who have visited a dentist in the past year, exceeding 71 percent. Furthermore, Wisconsin adheres to the AAPD recommended Dental Periodicity Schedule, ensuring that Medicaid dental benefits are provided according to the intervals recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
1. Illinois
Illinois is the best state for dental health, in part because it has the lowest percentage of people who have frequently experienced pain or problems sleeping in the past year due to the condition of their mouth and teeth. In addition, almost all of its residents have access to fluoridated water, and the state has a school-based dental sealant program. Illinois also offers extensive dental benefits for nonelderly adults through Medicaid, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to promoting dental health.
How to maintain your dental health without breaking the bank
Regular visits to the dentist are important for your oral health, but maintaining your oral health daily starts at home. Here's how to maintain your dental health without breaking the bank, according to experts:
Consistent Oral Hygiene:
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- Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time, using fluoride toothpaste. This helps remove plaque and prevent cavities.
- Floss daily to clean between teeth and along the gumline, where a toothbrush may not reach. This helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
Mindful Diet:
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- Limit sugary and acidic foods and beverages, as they can contribute to tooth decay. Opt for healthier snacks like fruits, vegetables, and nuts.
- Drink plenty of water, which helps rinse away food particles and keeps your mouth hydrated.
Regular Dental Check-ups:
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- Schedule dental check-ups every six months for professional cleanings and examinations. This allows your dentist to detect and treat any issues early, preventing them from becoming more serious and costly.
Affordable Dental Care Options:
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- Consider community health centers or dental schools for lower-cost dental services. These facilities often offer discounted rates for basic dental care.
- Look into dental insurance plans or discount plans that can help reduce the cost of dental treatments and procedures.
Preventive Maintenance:
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- Address any dental or oral health problems promptly to prevent them from worsening and requiring more extensive and expensive treatments.
- Follow your dentist's recommendations for treatments such as sealants or fluoride treatments, which can help prevent tooth decay.
Hygienist Cleanings:
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- Schedule regular cleanings with a dental hygienist every six months. These cleanings can remove plaque and tartar buildup that brushing and flossing alone may miss, helping to prevent gum disease and cavities.
Seeking Low-Cost Clinics:
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- Research local free or reduced-cost dental clinics in your area. These clinics may offer emergency services or basic dental care at a lower cost or on a sliding scale based on your income.
For a more detailed breakdown of the best states for dental health and to explore how your location may impact your oral health, you can refer to WalletHub's Best & Worst States for Dental Health report.
